Amherst Orchid Society
Become a Member

Springtime in February

2026 Annual Orchid Show & Sale

Escape the winter chill and immerse yourself in a world of exotic fragrance and color! Join us for a weekend of spectacular orchid displays, expert seminars, and premier shopping.

Download Plant Registration Form
Download Show Schedule

When?

• Saturday February 21st - 9:00am - 5:00pm
• Sunday February 22nd: 10:00am - 4:00pm

Where?

Smitch Vocational and Agricultural High School
80 Locust Street, Northampton MA 01060

Admission

• Adults: $5.00
• Children under 12: Free

The Vendors

Orchids

J&L Orchids

J&L Orchids is a nursery that began nearly 50 years ago in a quiet, Connecticut town.

Oceanside Orchids

From the very beginning it was all about Paphs, growing and hybridizing in Oceanside, CA.

Frosty Hollow Orchids

Quaint orchid nursery nestled in Vineyard Haven MA. Specializing in Phalaenopsis orchids.

Supplies & Art

Kelly's Korner Orchid Supplies

For greater than 42 years, Kelley's Korner has been an integral supporter of the orchid growing community.

Mathilde Duffy Art

Mathilde Duffy, a botanical illustrator and nature photographer, combines her love of nature with a wry sense of humor to create unusual cards

Member Schedule & Volunteer Information

  • 10:00AM – Meet at the Munson Memorial Library to pick up show supplies.
  • 10:30-11:00AM – Arrive at Smith Voc; set up backdrops and drape tables. Possibly starting to set up club display. Club members only. No plants or individual displays on this day.
  • 9:00AM – Finish table set-up
  • 9:30AM – Plants can be brought in at this time.
  • 10:00AM – Donated food needs to be brought in around this time.
  • 4:00PM – Cut off for the plants to be brought in.
    • *No club member plants allowed after this time*
  • 6:30PM – Vendor’s deadline for plant delivery and setup.
  • 8:00 AM – All clerks need to be here at this time.
    • If for some reason you cannot make it, you must let Joe Maciaszek know as he is in charge of the judging/ clerking.
      • Email Joe at judging@amherstorchidsociety.org
  • 9:00AM – Judging starts, and continues until done. Followed by lunch for the judges.
  • 10:00AM – Food for the judge’s lunch to be picked up and delivered by this time or earlier.
  • 8:45AM – Anyone who is signed up for a 9 AM task, please arrive early so you can get to your places and have things explained to you before we open.
  • 9:00AM – Show opens.
  • 5:00PM – Show closes.
  • 9:45AM – Anyone signed up for a task please arrive early so you can get you to your places and have things explained to you before we open the doors.
  • 10:00AM – Show opens to the public
  • 4:00PM – Show closes. We need as many people as possible for the take down at this time.

Exhibiting Your Orchids

Show off your hard work! Pre-registering your plants ensures your tags are ready when you arrive on Thursday.

Download Digital Registration Form

PREPARING THE CLUB DISPLAY

By Maryanne Laukaitis

Each year, we put a tremendous amount of thought into the design of our central display. I welcome anyone who wishes to help with the physical setup on Thursday or who has ideas on how to improve the layout. This is a fun, creative task that involves everything from heavy lifting to fine decorating with props and filler plants—we would love to have you join us!

How You Can Help: We are always looking for a few specific items to make the display look lush and natural. Please consider donating or lending the following:

  • Filler Plants: Large house plants in good condition (they do not need to be in flower).

  • Cut Greenery: Evergreen branches, ivy, or similar clippings to dress the edges of the display.

  • Natural Props: Interesting pieces of wood or driftwood (small enough to be hand-carried).

Drop-off Information: Items can be dropped off at Smith Vocational School during the following times:

  • Wednesday, Feb 19: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

  • Thursday, Feb 20: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Important Note: If you would like your plants or props returned, please ensure they are clearly marked with your name. Items should be claimed during the final clean-up on Sunday at 4:00 PM.